WHAT?
Periscope is a live streaming app for your smartphone that allows you to share and view other live videos from around the world. In the app’s own words, it allows you to get a “visual pulse of what’s happening right now” and “discover the world through someone else’s eyes.”
While there are two ways to use Periscope: 1. Stream your own content 2. Watch others stream their content – this article will focus on why and how to stream as an author.
There are only two requirements to start streaming: having a smartphone and having something to say. As an author, you already have a message, so broadcasting is just another way to help you reach and connect with more people.
WHY?
Periscope helps authors get their message out to the world in a personal way. Who better to tell your story than you? Who better to share your content or your passion? When people SEE you, they also see your authenticity. If people like you, they will be interested in your books, your message, and your heart.
– Tricia Goyer
As a broadcaster, Periscope allows you to share your world with others. Whether you’re at home working on a new book, traveling for a book signing, on a family vacation, or just bored in your office, it opens up an opportunity for a whole new level of connection with your viewers. Viewers are also invited to participate by asking questions to get answers live and tapping the screen to send hearts to the broadcaster.
Although it is quite new, it seems that it is here to stay. In just a few months, Periscope reached more than 10 million users, a number that has not stopped growing. It’s not just another social networking site for scheduling posts; it’s a new and unique way to engage with your current followers AND build even more followers.
SHOULD YOU START?
Here are some ideas about using Periscope to help you decide if it’s the right platform for you.
- The streams are live and great for interaction, but they only run on Periscope for 24 hours.
- Although they are short-lived, the videos can be saved, then posted on YouTube and shared on your social media platforms.
- Periscope is owned by Twitter, so naturally it’s the main social media connection. If your Twitter following is big, definitely consider starting streaming.
- If your Twitter following isn’t big, starting streaming could help build your Twitter presence. Plus, you can always post on Facebook and any other social media platform to invite people to join you on Periscope.
- It still falls under the category of “social media” rather than a primary source of content (ie a website, blog, YouTube channel, podcast station). This makes it an “add-on” rather than a “necessity”.
- Even if you’re thinking, “I don’t know… My life isn’t that interesting. Nobody wants to hear me ramble about what I’m doing,” remember that peoplelove “behind the scenes” and “on the fly” video content. Each transmission does not have to be deep or long. Short and sweet is still better than nothing at all.
WHAT?